Seriously had to look at the calendar this morning to see what day of the week it was.  Today will be a bit more sobering statement.

In our patrols, we are seeing people doing what the experts are telling us not to do.  People are congregating on Lincoln Ave, we are removing kids from parks, kids are out in groups and it seems many people are not taking this seriously.  Those of you doing the right thing, kudos to you, we know it is difficult.  We understand people want to get out for a walk but Lincoln Avenue should not be the only place for doing so.  We very much a support people having their freedom, however as we see our infections increase our primary mission will be to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our community. 

The first responders of Bellevue (police, fire, and EMS) are asking for your cooperation during this pandemic.  The more we have to police and respond to calls the more our risk of exposure increases.  Our supply of PPE equipment is limited as it is for everyone, especially our brothers and sisters in the Healthcare industry.  Our operational protocols change almost daily and by staying home you decrease your chances of needing our services.  We will find a way to say our thanks for your cooperation when we've beaten this matter, possibly as a nice big community event in the park.  Never been a better time to use the saying, "see you later".

We just received a very helpful statement from the Governor's office filled with hyperlinks for important information......read below and stay safe! 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 26, 2020

Department of Health Provides Update on COVID-19, 560 New Positives Bring Statewide Total to 1,687

Harrisburg, PA- The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., March 26, that there are 560 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 1,687 in 48 counties. The department also reported five new deaths, bringing the statewide death total to 16. County-specific information and a statewide map are available here. All people are either in isolation at home or being treated at the hospital.

“Our notable increase in cases over the past few days indicates we need everyone to take COVID-19 seriously,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “Pennsylvanians have a very important job right now: stay calm, stay home and stay safe. We have seen case counts continue to increase and the best way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to stay home.”

Statewide, there are 1,687 cases of COVID-19 reported from commercial, hospital and state labs. There are 16,441 patients who have tested negative and 16 total deaths. With commercial labs being the primary testing option for most Pennsylvanians, data is not available on the total number of tests pending.

All non-life-sustaining businesses are ordered to be closed and schools are closed statewide at least through April 6.

Statewide – The Wolf Administration has announced since noon, March 25:

• Expanded stay-at-home order to include Lehigh and Northampton counties, bringing total counties to 10.
• Announced financial assistance for small businesses.
• Released business closure order enforcement data from Pennsylvania State Police.

For the latest information for individuals, families, businesses and schools, visit “Responding to COVID-19” on pa.gov.

The Wolf Administration stresses the role Pennsylvanians play in helping to reduce the spread of COVID-19:

• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
• Cover any coughs or sneezes with your elbow, not your hands.
• Clean surfaces frequently.
• Stay home to avoid spreading COVID-19, especially if you are unwell.

Updated Coronavirus Links: Press Releases, State Lab Photos, Graphics

• For the daily COVID-19 Report, visit here.
• For all press releases regarding coronavirus, please visit here.
• Find the latest information on the coronavirus here.
• Photos of the state’s lab in Exton are available for download and use here.
• Coronavirus and preparedness graphics are available here near the bottom of the page: here
• Community preparedness and procedures materials are available here.
• For an updated map with the number of cases, visit here.

All Pennsylvania residents are encouraged to sign up for AlertPA, a text notification system for health, weather, and other important alerts like COVID-19 updates from commonwealth agencies. Residents can sign up online at www.ready.pa.gov/BeInformed/Signup-For-Alerts.